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Table of Contents

Who We Are       
   A Community of Learners, A Great Place to Be, A Commitment to Education

      Reform, A Special Place for Learning & the MCCPS Mission Statement 

The People of MCCPS - by position w/contact info              

      Administration, Leadership Team, Faculty & Staff, Counseling/Guidance, Food

      Service, Board of Trustees & Board Committees, PTO, MCCPS Education

      Foundation, Volunteer Coordinators: Enrichment, Fundraising, Food Service  

Life at MCCPS                                                                         

Hours of Operation, Daily Schedule, After-school & Extra-curricular Activities,  Staying after School, Extended Day, and School Cancellations/Snow Days 

Academic Information                                                             

• Academic Program: Global Themes, Exhibition, Essential Habits, Core Subjects, My Achievement Plans  (MAPs), Critical & Analytical Thinking
• Homework, ALEKS
• CUE Reporting System & Parents’ Corner – the MCCPS Report Card
• Academic Probation
• MCAS – Background, Purpose, Testing Schedule

 

General Information                                                                    

• Constructive Communication Process (or What do to if you have a problem with something that’s happening at school)
• Attendance Policy, Absence, Late Arrival, Excessive Absences/Tardies, Early Dismissal, Illness During the Day, Return to School after an Illness
• Sick Student Protocol
• Dress Code
• Code of Conduct, Disciplinary Procedures, Student Behavior Referrals, Suspension, Expulsion
• Emergency Procedures
• Medications
• Volunteers/Visitors
• Getting to & from School
• Telephone Use, Messages, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices
• Celebrations/Birthdays
• MCCPS Website, Acceptable Use of the MCCPS Network & Internet

 

Massachusetts General Law Provisions                                    

• Provisions Specific to Civil Rights: Title VI, Title IX, & Section 504
• Harassment Prevention Policy
• Homeless Education Policy & Procedures

 

Charter School Info                                                                 

Frequently Asked Questions, Myth & Realities  

School Calendar             

Who We Are

A Community of Learners

You’ve probably heard the expression ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’  Well, that’s the philosophy at MCCPS, and that’s why the word ‘community’ is a part of our name.  Students, faculty, staff, parents, and visitors begin the day together during Community Meeting.  We eat together in a communal dining room each day, and everyone goes outside together at recess.  We work together.  We play together.  We learn & grow together - as partners in education.  MCCPS is more than just a school; it is a nurturing, inclusive, and vibrant community that is empowered by the talents of dedicated adults who are committed to doing what is in the best interest of the children and families we serve.   

A Great Place to Be

The learning is challenging but fun, the children are respected, and parental involvement is valued and appreciated.  Our community of learners includes students & families from all over the North Shore.  MCCPS provides a challenging, innovative, integrated, and hands-on curriculum that includes art, music, French, health & wellness, sports, and community service learning in a small school setting.  Students enjoy the attention of a talented and experienced teaching staff, a full time nurse, counseling & support services, 2 recesses a day, an internationally renowned breakfast & lunch program (Parents may join us for meals.), controlled internet access, & an air-conditioned building.  MCCPS is committed to providing public (free) education that actively meets the needs of each student within the context of a dynamic and nurturing environment.  At MCCPS, students love going to school! 

A Commitment to Education Reform

Operational since 1995, MCCPS serves students in grades 4-8 in Marblehead and the surrounding cities and towns.  Charter schools are public schools of choice that are open to all students regardless of income, gender, race, religion, academic or physical ability.  Charter schools are independently designed and operated, and they are committed to improving the academic achievement of every student.  Today, over a million children in 40 states and Washington, D.C. attend one of more than 3,600 charter schools.  Throughout their 15-year history, charter schools have stood at the center of our nation's growing effort to reform and improve public education and provide greater educational options to all families.  MCCPS is proud to be a part of this effort. 

A Special Place for Learning

MCCPS is the oldest charter school in the state of Massachusetts.  Now in its 13^th year, MCCPS has been a model of innovative thinking.  Because what happens here is carefully crafted and accomplished with great purpose, nothing at MCCPS is an accident.  We believe that students experience success in their education through a challenging program of core academic studies, the integration of learning opportunities, the reinforcement of productive attitudes toward work, community, school, friends, and self, a focus on the individual strengths and weaknesses of each student, and an institutional and personal investment in community service learning.  In addition to the learning gained from working on projects and participating in activities, the students learn about themselves, enhance their skills and talents, and work cooperatively with other students and members of their community.  

When you arrive, you may feel as if you’re speaking a new language, but really, it’s all just shorthand for the reform-minded practices that come to life at MCCPS everyday.  We have Global Themes, My Achievement Plans (MAPs), Exhibitions of Student Work, essential habits, standards & strands, rubrics, ALEKS, Enrichment, the CUE Report, and more.  Each is an important part of what makes MCCPS special.  These terms may sound foreign at first, but have no fear, you’ll be speaking like a native in no time!  

Improving student achievement is imperative, but we don’t teach to the test.  At MCCPS, like at other schools, the students are required to learn the state standards in each subject, but what is unique at MCCPS is the way these standards are taught and assessed.  The content is put into context; there is a continuous focus on individual learning styles; the process by which student understanding is assessed is varied and authentic; and the emphasis on personal responsibility throughout the curriculum builds character and produces higher academic achievement.  Not only are MCCPS students interested in their learning, but they perform well on the MCAS as well.  Our 8^th graders placed second in the state on the English Language Arts MCAS test last year.  98% of them passed the Math test (76% scored in the Advanced/Proficient categories), and 95% passed the Science test.  100% of all 5^th – 8^th graders passed the ELA MCAS.  We know that if the students are engaged, respected, challenged, and supported they will do well academically, and our students’ performance on the MCAS tests has supported this fact.   

At MCCPS, we believe that children are individuals, that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect, that global connections should be made to deepen learning, that assessments should be authentic and include more than just test scores, and that being a member of a community means caring about others and taking responsibility for oneself.  That’s why we believe in the following mission: 
 

MCCPS Mission Statement  

Recognizing that children learn best

in the context of community, our mission is

to create partnerships among community members that assist students in reaching their highest intellectual, social, emotional, and physical potential. 
 
 

 

The People of MCCPS

ADMINISTRATION

 

 

LEADERSHIP TEAM

 
 
 

GRADE 4

 
 
 
 

GRADE 5

 

GRADE 6

 

GRADE 7

GRADE 8

 
 

INTEGRATED ARTS/SPECIALISTS

 
 

IF YOU’RE HAVING TROUBLE FINDING THE CONTACT INFO

FOR THE PERSON OR PROGRAM YOU NEED,    

CALL EILEEN PERRY (781) 631-0777 extension 25.   

She will connect you with the right person!

HEALTH & WELLNESS and COUNSELING/GUIDANCE

 

FOOD SERVICE

 

MCCPS PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION 

Norma Ross   Facilitator, Parent rossclan5@verizon.net

Kathy Cormier Facilitator, Parent kmcormier@aol.com

Molly  Wolverton Facilitator, Teacher mwolverton@marbleheadcharter.com

Avery Russell  Treasurer  averyrussell@comcast.net 

MCCPS EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Emil Ronchi   781-639-3635  eronchi@marbleheadcharter.com

Frank Murphy  978-741-0005  fmurphy344@aol.com

Jeff Barry  781-631-0777 X 12 jbarry@marbleheadcharter.com

Eileen Perry  781-631-0777 X 25 eperry@marbleheadcharter.com 

VOLUNTEER COORDINATORS

Enrichment  Deb Galiel   781-631-0777 X 22

Food Service  Susan Magnet  781-631-0777 X 14

Fundraising  Pam Haley   781-631-0777 X 70 

      & Eileen Perry  781-631-0777 X 25 

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

 

BOARD COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Finance  Dr. John Sullivan jsullivan@marbleheadcharter.com 

Community Relations John McEnaney jmcena29@marbleheadcharter.com 

Governance  Cathy Vaucher cvaucher@marbleheadcharter.com

      Pam Miller   pmiller@marbleheadcharter.com 

Personnel   Pam Wheaton Shorr pwshorr@comcast.net

Life at MCCPS

DAILY SCHEDULE

Hours of Operation 7:30 am – 4:30 pm 

  7:30   Building Opens to Students

  7:30 - 7:45  Breakfast

  7:30 - 8:15  Band Practice (Tuesdays & Thursdays)

  7:45 - 8:00  Community Meeting

  8:00 - 8:30  Advisory

  8:30 - 10:00  1st Academic Block (A-block)

      10:00 - 10:25 Recess / Fitness – Café Open

10:30 - 12:00  2nd Academic Block (B-block)

12:00 - 12:30  Lunch – Café Open

12:30 - 12:55  Recess/Fitness

  1:00 -  2:30  3rd Academic Block (C-block)

  2:30 -  3:15  Enrichment

  2:30 - 4:30 Team Practice

  3:15   Dismissal

  3:15 – 3:45    School Store (Tuesdays Only)

  3:15 -  3:30  Café Open

  3:30 -  4:30  After-school Homework Club

  3:30 – 4:30    Counseling & Parental Support – available by appointment 

• Breakfast - A full breakfast, bagels, cereal, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk, and hot chocolate are available for purchase.  Breakfast is served from 7:30 until 7:45.  Parents and guests are welcome to join us for breakfast.

 

• Community Meeting – In keeping with our community philosophy, each school day begins with a 15-minute whole-school community meeting.  This meeting is a time for announcements, celebrations, and facing the challenges of the day.  Students are encouraged to share what they have learned and hear what their peers are learning.  Attendance is required and guests are always welcome.

 

• Advisory - Following Community Meeting, students report to their advisory room for 30 minutes.  During advisory time, teachers greet students, take attendance, and engage students in academic reflections, activities, and/or classroom chores.

 

• Academic Blocks - The curriculum provides students with a well-rounded and rigorous program in the areas of math, science/technology, humanities, and the arts.  Students are given the opportunity to learn by doing: investigating, researching, building, presenting, discussing, and demonstrating.

 

• Recess/Breaks/Fitness – We love to play outside!  Students should come to school prepared to go outside everyday, except in the case of rain.  Research shows that good health and fitness positively affect student achievement, and we know that students benefit from fresh air and physical activity.  Regular breaks keep students refreshed and ready to learn. The MCCPS Fitness Program includes two ½ hour breaks – one in the morning and one in the afternoon.  During these breaks, students must complete at least one lap (approximately ¼ mile) around the field during each recess.  Students may complete more than two laps per day in order to achieve a higher fitness rating.  There are also plenty of opportunities for children to run and play on the field after completing their mandatory laps.

 

• Lunch – Delicious is the word for lunch at MCCPS, where our wonderfully talented kitchen staff creates restaurant-quality meals for students, staff, and guests!  A full lunch program, salad bar, snacks, desserts, and beverages are available for purchase.  Students sit with peers and staff at round tables for lunch.

 

Parents and guests are always welcome and are encouraged to join students for lunch at any time.  If you’d like to order the main entrée, please make reservations via the front office or through your child’s advisory teacher prior to 9 A.M.  If you are unable to reserve a lunch before 9 in the morning, you are still welcome to join us, but please select a salad or something from the café instead of purchasing the hot or cold entrée.  To operate efficiently, the kitchen prepares only the number of meals ordered each day.  Purchasing an entrée without making a reservation will leave a child without the lunch he/she has ordered.  Also, please sign in/out at the front office when you arrive/before you leave.  We love company, so we look forward to seeing you often!  

• Enrichment – Volunteers and staff share their expertise, talents, and hobbies with students in multi-age groups during a daily 45-minute Enrichment period. This is an opportunity for students to explore areas of interest and participate in activities that enhance and enrich their regular academic day.  In addition to the learning gained from the project/activity, students learn about themselves and their peers, gain skills and further develop talents, and witness adults providing a valuable community service.  Enrichment programs are made possible by volunteers.  Their enthusiastic participation enables the Enrichment program to offer a wide variety of experiences to our students.  We greatly appreciate the generous contributions of time and energy made by these essential members of the MCCPS community.

• Participation in Enrichment is a required part of the school day.
• Students choose the Enrichments that interest them, and every effort is made to place them in their 1st or 2nd choices.
• Most students will have one Independent Study per week.  An additional

   day of Independent Study or a waiver excusing a student from

    Independent Study may be requested from the Advisory Teacher.

• Each student must adhere to his/her Enrichment schedule. 

• Enrichment Volunteer Opportunities: To learn more about teaching an enrichment course, please contact Deb Galiel at 781-631-0777 X 22 or dgaliel@marbleheadcharter.com. 

 

• Homework Club - Students may work on a school computer, get teacher assistance, or work independently.  Homework Club is staffed by MCCPS personnel, and it is available Monday-Friday, from 3:30 – 4:30 pm every school day, except Exhibition day, the day after Exhibition, and half-days before long weekends/vacations.  Students may sign-up in advance or drop-in as needed.  The cost is $10 per day ($5 for each sibling who also participates) and scholarships are available.   Contact Ms. (Bartlett) Souza, Mr. Fauci, or Ms. Eileen Perry for more information.
• Team Practice / Sports Teams - Currently, MCCPS is proud to cheer our teams in track and field, cross-country, soccer (league champs!), and basketball.  Please, contact Mr. Ruth for more information. 

 

STAYING AFTER SCHOOL

Students who need to stay after school should arrange in advance to stay with a specific teacher.  In cases where a teacher requests that a student stay after school for extra-help, discipline, or other reason, a call will be placed to the parent prior to the end of the day. 

Arrangements for transportation should be made prior to a student staying after school.  To ensure student safety, no student may stay after school without the permission and supervision of a teacher. 

EXTENDED DAY

Half-days at MCCPS, whether for a faculty in-service/professional development or for the twice yearly My Achievement Plan (MAP) meetings, are an important part of the school's program.  Historically, students had been dismissed at noon leaving parents and guardians to find child-care.  Because this was a struggle for many, MCCPS now offers an Extended Day Program for our families on most half days. 

The Extended Day Program will operate from 12:00 until the usual dismissal time of 3:15.  The students will be supervised by MCCPS staff members.  There will be some time for homework/independent study (the computer lab will be available on an as-needed basis), and there will be some time for play and exercise (inside or outside, depending upon the weather).  Additionally, there may be some planned activities based upon the ages and interests of the students.  Students enrolled in the program may bring a lunch or purchase a sandwich/bagel, drink, and dessert from the Food Service Department for $3.50.  

The cost is $25 per day. The reduced rate for each participating sibling is $10.00 per day when both students are present.  Only students enrolled in MCCPS are eligible to participate, and all MCCPS behavioral expectations will apply.  

At 3:15, students may be picked up, or they may walk home.  Because the instructor must stay at the school until all participating students have gone home, there will be a charge of $1.00 per minute for each minute that the student is left at the school after 3:30.  Homework Club will be available on most days after the Extended Day Program.    
 

The Extended Day Program will be available on the following dates:

      Monday – Friday, September 24-28

      Wednesday, December 12, 2007

      Wednesday, January 9, 2008

      Wednesday, February 6, 2008

      Wednesday, April 9, 2008

      Monday – Friday, June 2-6 

The Extended Day Program will not be available for full-day in-services or on the half-days before vacations/long weekends.  

SCHOOL CANCELLATIONS / SNOW DAYS

MCCPS follows ‘snow day’ decisions made by the Marblehead Superintendent of Schools.  If Marblehead Public Schools are closed, MCCPS will be closed as well.  There will not be a separate announcement/listing for MCCPS.  School cancellations will be announced early in the morning on WBZ radio (AM1030) and WBZ channel 4.  You can also check online at www.marblehead.com/school
 

ACADEMIC INFORMATION  

MCCPS provides a rigorous academic program, including: 

• Global Themes that provide a means to connect the learning between grade levels and result in high levels of student engagement and performance. There are three school-wide global themes per year.

• Public Exhibitions of Student Work are the culminating events of each trimester. During this evening event, students are given the opportunity to publicly demonstrate, explain, and defend what they know and are able to do.  It is an authentic assessment and an alternative to a traditional final exam.  Exhibitions provide a means for a “real world” application of knowledge that directs the students towards more sophisticated use of the skills or knowledge. Exhibitions require students to develop and use a wide range of analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. 

 

• Essential Habits – Development, Assessment, & Reporting Work habits essential for successful living are encouraged, assessed, and reported in order to assist students in becoming life-long learners and effective citizens.  MCCPS assists all students to learn and practice being Responsible & Reliable, Persistent & Self-directed, Reflective & Inquisitive, Organized & Attentive to Detail, Respectful & Honest.  Teachers formally report student essential habit performance at the conclusion of each trimester.

 

• Academic Program Our coursework provides a project-based integrated approach to teaching students the humanities, math, science, foreign language, art, music, health, and community service learning.

 

• My Achievement Plans (MAPs) are individual learning plans developed collaboratively by the student, teacher(s), and parent/guardian to reflect the learning goal(s) of the student and establish the responsibilities of the student, teacher(s), and parent/guardian in achieving the goals. Students regularly write reflections to indicate and document progress toward achieving their goals.  Two formal conferences per year are reserved to discuss progress and update goals.

 

• Critical and Analytical Thinking challenge students to think beyond the content and apply their knowledge to new and different situations. They grow to understand and appreciate the purpose and benefits of thinking critically. Students regularly participate in learning reflection activities where they respond to the following questions: What did you learn? How did you learn it? Why is it important?

 

HOMEWORK

Homework is assigned regularly to support academic achievement.  To facilitate homework completion and support home/school communication, all students are provided with a school assignment book.  Daily homework assignments and brief notes between parents and teachers are recorded in the assignment book.  Homework is given daily at the discretion of the individual teachers and students are expected to keep an accurate record of all assignments. All homework should be completed in a neat and timely fashion. It is each student’s responsibility to complete all homework missed due to absence. 

ALEKS

ALEKS (Assessment and LEarning in Knowledge Spaces) is a web-based, artificially intelligent assessment and learning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine exactly what a student knows and doesn't know.  ALEKS then instructs the student on the topics he/she is most ready to learn.  As a student works, ALEKS periodically reassesses the student to ensure that topics learned are also retained.  The program is available 27/7, is very complete in the topics covered, and ALEKS avoids multiple-choice questions.  Students are required to complete a minimum number of minutes per week on ALEKS.     

CUE REPORT & PARENTS’ CORNER – the MCCPS Report Card

The CUE (Communicating Understanding through Evidence) is designed to keep parents and students up-to-date regarding student progress and performance.  The CUE is a comprehensive, web-based reporting system that provides on-going, detailed, and timely assessment of student work.  Students and parents can keep track of assignments, can know the results of tests as soon as teachers post them to their grade books, and can identify academic areas that need extra attention.  When checked regularly, the CUE can be a very effective tool for students and parents.  

As a public school, MCCPS must teach the content and skills that are described in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.  In the Frameworks, each subject is divided into strands.  It is our goal that students will demonstrate a proficient level of understanding in each strand in each subject by the end of the year.  All student work is viewed as evidence toward this goal.  At the end of each trimester, the student’s work will be evaluated.  The grades will not be averaged, but instead the student’s demonstrated level of understanding will be determined, the following descriptors will be used: 

• Advanced: The student’s work has demonstrated a level of understanding that exceeds the grade level standards at this time. 

 

• Proficient: The student’s work has demonstrated a level of understanding that meets the grade level standard at this time. 

 

• Developing: The student’s work has demonstrated a partial understanding of the grade level standards at this time. 

 

• Emerging: The student’s work has demonstrated a minimal understanding of the grade level standards at this time. 

 

• Not Yet Assessed: Sufficient evidence does not exist to determine a demonstrated level of understanding, because the content and skills in the strand have not yet been presented or, the student did not complete the required work, and thus did not yet demonstrate his/her understanding.

 

Another important feature of the CUE is the separate reporting of the student’s academic achievement and his/her work habits.  Both are important, but they must be understood separately to best help the student reach his/her full potential.  The following habits will be assessed each trimester:  

• Responsible & Reliable
• Persistent & Self-directed
• Reflective & Inquisitive
• Organized & Attentive to Detail
• Respectful & Honest

 

The information in the CUE is password protected.  Please, contact the subject matter teacher with questions about the work or grades, and contact Matt Cronin, Technology Coordinator, regarding your login or password needs.   

 

ACADEMIC PROBATION

Academic Probation is intended to assist students who are having difficulty fulfilling their academic obligations.  Students may be placed on Academic Probation at the request of their parent/guardian, teacher, or the Interim Academic Director.  Together, the student, his/her parent/guardian, teachers, and the Interim Academic Director will identify the student’s needs and will develop an action plan to assist in helping the student demonstrate academic achievement.  The plan may include student participation in counseling, additional independent studies, extra help sessions with teachers/tutors, Homework Club, etc.  If the student fails to make adequate academic progress, the plan may be adjusted accordingly.  If the student refuses to follow the plan designed for him/her or if adequate academic progress is not made, retention in the current grade level may be considered.   

MCAS - Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System

Some Background

Every year students attending public schools in Massachusetts are required to participate in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System – MCAS.  These tests are mandated by a state law, the Education Reform Act of 1993, and a federal law, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.  The primary objectives of these tests are to track improvement in student performance and to assure curriculum alignment. To learn more about the MCAS, visit http://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas.  

Use of MCAS Results

• The MCAS reports will illustrate how well our students and the school are achieving the learning standards described in the state’s Curriculum Frameworks. MCCPS embraces the Frameworks, and all units and lessons are driven first by the state standards.  MCCPS believes that our integrated, student-centered, activity-based approach to instruction enhances the students’ level of achievement.  The Frameworks are available for your review on the Department of Education’s website at www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/current.html.
• The teachers will use individual student results to focus on areas in which students need assistance to improve performance. The teachers and administrators will use the grade-level and school wide results to evaluate the effectiveness of the MCCPS curriculum in aligning with the standards defined in the Frameworks.

 

Testing Schedule

      March 25, 2008 English Language Arts Composition Test (Grades 4 & 7)

      March 24 – April 4, 2008 ELA Language and Literature (Grades 4 - 8)

      May 12 – May 29, 2008 (Grades 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) *Tests and dates will be announced. 
 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION  

CONSTRUCTIVE COMMUNICATION PROCESS

      (or What do to if you have a problem with something that’s happening at school) 

The MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff believe that effective communication contributes to increased student achievement. All MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff maintain an open-door policy with regards to sharing information, answering questions, and discussing issues. 

Goal: The goal of the Constructive Communication Process is to ensure open, honest, respectful, and constructive communication for all MCCPS stakeholders. 

MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff welcome your questions and comments; please communicate directly and often. 

MCCPS administrators, faculty, and staff are generally available immediately before and after school to answer questions or engage in informal conversations. Phone calls, emails, and comments/questions in a student’s MCCPS assignment book are also welcome.

Parents, administrators, faculty, and/or staff members who are concerned with an issue that cannot be resolved in a brief informal conversation are welcomed and encouraged to schedule a meeting to discuss steps towards resolution.  In order to ensure an orderly and efficient course of resolving each issue, please follow the process outlined below: 

NOTE: All meetings and conversations at this level are documented in a Conference Report, copies of which are sent to the meeting’s participants and the administration for their review and comment.  All written comments become part of a documented record of the issue under consideration.

• Step 1) Schedule a meeting to speak directly with the person or persons closest to the issue.  Meeting participants are encouraged (and MCCPS personnel are required) to invite a third party to take notes during the meeting.  Follow-up meetings may be scheduled to facilitate timely resolution of issues.
• Step 2) If, after following step 1, an issue remains unresolved, any meeting participant is encouraged to schedule a meeting with the person or persons closest to the issue and the Interim Academic Director.  At this stage, follow-up meetings should be scheduled through Interim Academic Director.
• Step 3) If, after following steps 1-2, an issue remains unresolved, any meeting participant is encouraged to schedule a meeting with the person or persons closest to the issue, the Interim Academic Director, and the Interim Managing Director. At this stage, follow-up meetings should be scheduled through the Interim Managing Director.
• Step 4) If, after following steps 1-3, an issue remains unresolved, any meeting participant is encouraged to request mediation.  All requests for mediation must be in writing and directed to the Interim Managing Director.  The school will schedule a mediation session at the Marblehead Counseling Center with all relevant parties.
• Step 5) If, after following steps 1-4, an issue remains unresolved, a letter of appeal should be sent to the Chair of the MCCPS Board of Trustees.  The Board Chair will review all related documentation and respond in writing with a summary judgment of his/her findings.

 

NOTE: In order to ensure effective issue resolution at MCCPS, any communication of an unresolved issue received by a member of the MCCPS Board of Trustees is forwarded to the Interim Academic Director who will facilitate the process of issue resolution explained above. A report of each issue that results in a Conference Report will be copied to the Interim Academic Director to track the progress of each inquiry to its satisfactory resolution.  A report of issues and resolution rates will be included in the monthly State of the School report given by the Interim Academic Director to the Board of Trustees. 

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Massachusetts State law requires that students between the ages of 6 and 16 years attend school, and we have been charged by the state to ensure that this occurs.  So, attendance at school is mandatory.  Students are required to be in school for all scheduled school days and Exhibition programs unless they are sick or they have permission from the school to be absent.  

• Absence
  
  • If a student is going to be absent, a parent/guardian should call the school (781- 631-0777) prior to 8:00 A.M.
  • A note explaining the absence should be presented to the Advisory Teacher upon returning to school.  All notes must include the date of and reason for the absence.
  • Absences will be excused for illness, religious holidays, a death in the family, or a funeral.
  • Absences of 3 consecutive days require a note from a physician addressing each of the days absent, stating the specific illness, and confirming that the student was too sick to attend school, but is well enough to return.
  • Planned absences should be reported in writing to the Advisory Teacher prior to the absence.  Whenever possible, appointments should be scheduled for after school.
  • Absences due to family vacations that occur while school is in session must be considered “unexcused absences.”  MCCPS encourages parents to plan family vacations when school is not in session, however we recognize that parents do not always have this option.  The Advisory Teacher should be notified in writing in advance of the dates of the vacation.  School work will not be provided in advance of a vacation.  The student may request the work and extra help when he/she returns.    
  • All work missed due to absence must be completed.  Due dates will be determined by the teacher(s). 

 

 

• Late Arrival/Tardy
  
  • Community Meeting is an important part of the day, and students are expected to be seated in the Community Room by 7:45AM.
  • If a student is going to be tardy, the school should be called prior to 8:00AM (631-0777) by a parent/guardian.
  • A student arriving between 7:45 and 8:00 must sign in at the front desk and then go to the Community Room.
  • A student arriving after 8:00 A.M. should be accompanied by a parent/guardian who will sign in the student at the front desk, or the student must present a note from his/her parent/guardian stating the date, arrival time, and reason for the tardiness.
  • A parent/guardian will be notified if a student is chronically late.
  • Students are responsible for completing all work missed due to tardiness.
  • A student whose late arrival is unexcused will assist with the clean-up crew after lunch on the day he/she was tardy. 

 

• Excessive Absence and/or Tardiness
  
  • If a student is excessively absent (10 or more days within one term) or tardy (3 or more days within one week), the school may contact the parent/guardian to request an explanation.  
    
    • If no written documentation of illness is received, or if the student continues to be absent/tardy, a formal letter will be sent to the parent indicating the school’s concern.  This letter may request a physician’s note and/or schedule a conference with the parents and child.
    • If absences/tardiness continue after the formal letter and conference, the school may be forced to contact the local truancy officer for assistance and/or require that the student repeat the school year. 

 

• Early Dismissal
  
  • If a student needs to be dismissed early from school, a note should be brought to school.  The note should explain the reason for the early dismissal and how the student will be getting home.
  • A student being dismissed early must be signed out by a parent/guardian at the front desk.  Students can not be released early without direct communication from the parent/guardian.
  • Students are responsible for completing all work missed due to early dismissal.

 

• Illness During the Day

If a student becomes ill while at school, a parent/guardian will be notified.  The student will be cared for in the health office until he/she is picked up by a parent/guardian.  A student who is being dismissed due to illness must be signed out by a parent/guardian at the front desk.   

SICK STUDENT PROTOCOL 

If a student is observed to be ill or complains of illness, the student will be sent to the Health Office for evaluation.  The student’s temperature will be taken, and upon further evaluation, the student may be dismissed if any or all of the following occur:

• Temperature is elevated.
• The student is vomiting.
• The student continues to complain of illness after an appropriate period of rest in the Health Office.
• Consultation and/or evaluation by the school nurse determines consideration for dismissal.
• If, upon contact with the parent, it is felt to be in the best interest of the student to be dismissed. 

 

Changes/Concerns: If a student is noted to have any changes in behavior, functioning, gait, color, or has expresses any signs or symptoms of illness or discomfort, the school nurse should be consulted.  Should a faculty/staff member become concerned about the health of a student or have any concerns about safety, the school nurse should be consulted for evaluation of the student. 

Exclusion from School Due to Illness: Students with the following symptoms should be excluded from school until the illness has resolved and/or until a physician determines that the student may return to school:

Conjunctivitis, Impetigo, Diarrhea*, Vomiting*, Fever*, Undiagnosed rash**, Severe upper respiratory infection, Sore throat, Earache 

 

*Students should be symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school

**A rash can be an indication of many things, frequently of illness that is contagious.  Therefore, a student will be excluded from school until a physician determines that the student is not contagious and may return to school. If a student is dismissed from school due to a rash, the student must present a note from the physician certifying that the student may return to school.

Returning To School Following An Illness: A doctor’s note is required upon return to school following: major surgery, fracture, severe illness or hospitalization (pneumonia, mononucleosis, bronchitis, asthma, etc). The note should state any limitations or accomodations necessary for class attendance, gym and recess and a plan of care to meet the student’s needs while in school. The date for resumption of normal activity should also be clearly stated.  

Questions: Please feel free to contact the school nurse, Mrs. Rinfret-Cronin, with any questions regarding the return to school following illness, injury, or hospitalization Students are encouraged to return to school as soon as they are physically able. 

DRESS CODE

In general, a student’s appearance should be neat and clean and should reflect the important educational work pursued at MCCPS.  Please, label coats, sweatshirts, etc. 

• No items of clothing may have offensive/vulgar images or language, references to sex, alcohol, drugs, or abuse of any kind.
• Students should dress for the weather.  They will go outside for AM/PM Breaks everyday.  They will go out when it’s hot, when it’s cold, and when it snows!  We know that fresh air and exercise are very important to academic success, so only rain will keep us inside during breaks.
• Ripped and torn items are not acceptable.
• Collared shirts are encouraged, but not required.  Shirts may be sleeveless, but tank tops, spaghetti straps, and strapless tops are not acceptable.
• Short-shorts & micro-minis are discouraged.
• Sneakers must be worn during Fitness.  Heelys are not allowed, and cleats may be worn only when required for team practice.  Flip-flops should not be worn during muddy weather. 
• Hats may be worn outside during AM/PM Breaks and during Outdoor Fitness, but they may not be worn in the school building.

 

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Student behavior should always reflect a seriousness of purpose and a cooperative attitude both in and out of the classroom.  MCCPS enjoys an atmosphere of trust and high behavioral expectations, because everyone makes every effort to do their best everyday. The culture of respect at MCCPS is carefully nurtured, and the students at MCCPS respond well to this expectation. 

• Students are expected to treat all teachers/staff, classmates, all community members, and volunteers with respect to at all times.  Disrespectful words, actions, or attitudes will not be tolerated at MCCPS.
• Staff members are continually looking for opportunities to recognize positive behaviors.  Public presentation of a “Commendation” is one way that staff can encourage and acknowledge exceptional student behavior. 
• Inappropriate behaviors will be redirected and/or documented via a Student Behavior Referral.

 

RULE 230

All MCCPS students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the goals of the school, and work in cooperation with all members of the MCCPS community to create a positive learning environment. Students can check their compliance with “Rule 230” by asking themselves, “If all 230 students were doing what I’m doing now, would that be appropriate?” If the answer to this question is “yes,” the student’s behavior is probably acceptable.  If the answer to the question is “no,” the student should redirect his/her behavior. 

HANDS-OFF POLICY

Students are expected to keep their hands to themselves.  The touching of other students (even in play or affection) is prohibited.   

ENRICHMENT - BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

All school rules apply at all times during Enrichment classes/activities.  Students are expected to arrive to their Enrichment activities on time, and they must treat the Enrichment instructors with respect.  A student may be removed from an Enrichment activity for the remainder of the class/term if his/her behavior is unacceptable.  Student Behavioral Referrals may be issued during Enrichment. 

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

-  Student Behavior Referrals, Suspension, Expulsion

At MCCPS, we recognize that sometimes kids make mistakes.  That doesn’t make them bad kids, it just makes them kids.  So, the adults at MCCPS will make every effort to help them learn from their mistakes and make better choices in the future.  Each student’s behavior file will remain confidential.  This file will not be included in the student’s permanent record, and it will be destroyed after the student withdraws or graduates from the school.  If a student or his/her parent wants to view this file, Mrs. Eileen Perry should be contacted to arrange an appointment.    

STUDENT BEHAVIOR REFERRALS

Student Behavior Referrals will be issued to students who do not follow the school rules, so that they and their parent/guardian will be informed of the inappropriate behavior and the steps that have been taken by the school to correct/redirect the behavior.  A student who earns a Student Behavioral Referral will be required to:

• Discuss the issue with his/her parent/guardian.
• Reflect upon his/her behavior by answering 3 questions:
  
  • What did you? 
  • What should you have done instead? 
  • Were you treated fairly?
• Obtain a parent’s/guardian’s signature on the SBR.
• Return the completed SBR to the teacher who issued it.
• Make every effort to make better choices in the future.

 

A Student Behavioral Referral may be issued for any inappropriate behavior, including but not limited to:

• Failure to follow instructions
• Disrespectful behavior
• Disruptive behavior
• Inappropriate interaction – physical
• Inappropriate interaction – verbal
• Destruction of student property
• Destruction of school property

 

Behaviors that show a gross neglect for the rules of the school may necessitate immediate and serious disciplinary action.  Sanctions for the following behaviors may include suspension for one or more days, work service, or expulsion:

• Flagrant disrespect shown to a teacher, staff member, administrator, volunteer, or fellow student
• Bullying
• Harassment - verbal, physical, sexual
• Truancy
• Fighting
• Theft (of school or student property)
• Possession of a controlled substance (tobacco, drugs, alcohol)
• Possession of a weapon
• Vandalism

 

SUSPENSION

A student may be suspended because he/she has earned 5, 10, or 15 Student Behavior Referrals.  A student may also be suspended immediately if his/her behavior reflects gross neglect for the school’s rules.  Any student who is suspended for any reason must participate in a conference with his/her parent/guardian, Advisory Teacher, and an administrator before returning to school.  Most suspensions are served out of school, however in some cases, an in-house suspension will be served instead. Students are required to complete all school work missed due to suspension.

• A student whose behavior results in 5 Student Behavioral Referrals will be required to serve a one-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim Academic Director or her designee.  
• A student whose behavior results in 10 Student Behavioral Referrals will be required to serve a two-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim Academic Director or her designee.  
• A student whose behavior results in 15 Student Behavioral Referrals will be required to serve a three-day suspension as scheduled by the Interim Academic Director or her designee.  At this point, a discussion regarding the placement of the student in an alternative program will take place.

 

EXPULSION

A student who assaults, verbally, physically, or sexually, a member of the school staff on school premises or at a school sponsored or school related event may be subject to expulsion from the school. 

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

The staff at MCCPS takes the safety of your children very seriously.  Our building is equipped with a security camera at the front door and locks on all doors.  Students are supervised at all times when out on the playing field.  All staff members have been trained in emergency response procedures.  In the event of a school emergency, s  parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible with information and/or instructions.   

MEDICATIONS

All medication MUST be administered by the school nurse or a designated member of the school’s administration or staff.  Students are not permitted to keep any medication with them without the permission of the school’s nurse. 

 

VOLUNTEERS/VISITORS

As a community school, committed to creating “partnerships among community members that assist students in reaching their highest intellectual, social, emotional, and physical potential,” MCCPS offers many volunteer opportunities that serve our students and school.  All community members are welcomed and encouraged to invest their time, energy, and expertise to help our students achieve!  To learn about volunteer opportunities at the school, please contact Deb Galiel, Community Partnership Coordinator, at dgaliel@marbleheadcharter.com or 781-631-0777 ext. 22. Visitors are always welcome at MCCPS.  Please check in at the front desk when you arrive/depart. 

GETTING TO & FROM SCHOOL

Drop Off/Pick Up

• All pedestrians should use the sidewalk and the crosswalk on Lime Street when going to and from the school.
• Cars should not pull up to the front stairs.
• Drivers should use the turn-about for drop-off/pick-up only.  Pull into the turnabout as far as you can without re-entering Lime Street.  Tell your child/carpool to enter/exit the car as quickly as possible, so that you can move out of the turn-about and allow the next group of cars to move up.
• Cars should not park in or block the turn-about at any time.  If your child/carpool requires more than a moment for drop-off/pick-up, please park in the lot to allow enough time to unload/load.  After school, if you’re in the turn-about, but your child is not visible and moving toward your car, please go around the turn-about again (or pull into the lot and park) to allow the traffic to continue to move.

 

Public Transit Buses

The MBTA bus runs every 30 minutes with the first bus after dismissal arriving at the Green Street stop around 3:40 pm. Students traveling to and from school using the MBTA bus can request a Charlie card, so they will pay a reduced rate. Students should be aware that riding the MBTA bus is a privilege, so students are expected to conduct themselves accordingly.  Consequences for inappropriate behavior on the bus may result in the loss of this riding privilege. 

Bicycles/Skateboards/Rollerblades

Students who ride a bike/skateboard/ rollerblades to school are required to wear a helmet/protective gear for their safety.  The school provides a bike rack, and students should use a lock, as the school is not responsible for the loss of bikes or other equipment.  Bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades may be ridden on school property only while traveling to and from home.  They may not be used during school hours. 

TELEPHONE USE/MESSAGES/CELL PHONES

To facilitate home/school communication, all faculty and staff have email and voicemail accounts.  Email addresses are listed in this handbook and on the school’s website.  Voicemail accounts can be reached by calling the school’s main number (781-631-0777).  Extension numbers are available in this handbook in the “People of MCCPS” section.

• Using the School’s Phone: There is a phone in every classroom.  In the event of an emergency, students will be permitted to use the phone.  However, arrangements for after school activities/play dates should be made prior to school.
• Phone Messages: To protect instructional time from disruptions, phone messages will be delivered to students during break times.
• Cell Phones: Please ensure that your child’s phone is labeled with his/her name.  Although MCCPS understands the need for students to carry cell phones, it is important that parents and students are aware that cell phones may not be used without teacher permission for any reason during the school day (including listening to music, taking pictures, etc.).  Students’ cell phones must be turned off during the day and should be left in the students’ backpacks.  If a student uses his/her cell phone without permission, it will be confiscated, and a Student Behavior Referral will be issued.       

 

ELECTRONIC MUSIC/GAMING DEVICES

Game boys, cd-players, iPods, and other electronic music/gaming devices may be used before/after school and during recess.  Music/gaming devices may not be used at any other time unless teacher permission has been granted.  If a student uses his/her music/gaming device without permission, it will be confiscated, and a Student Behavior Referral will be issued.  The student’s name should be visible on his/her device. 

BIRTHDAYS/CELEBRATIONS

Because it is difficult to ensure the safety of students with food allergies, food intolerances, or dietary restrictions, please check with your child’s Advisory Teacher or the school nurse before bringing treats to school.  Non-food celebrations or prepackaged foods are encouraged.   

WEBSITE

The MCCPS website is an excellent source of information – past, present, and future.  We hope that you will visit http://marbleheadcharter.org frequently.  There is a calendar of events.  You can see the month’s menu and purchase breakfast/lunch tickets.  The classroom pages are a combination of delightful memories and useful documents.  There are many historical and governance pages.  You can access the SchoolPop site to donate to the school just by doing your regular online shopping.  And, best of all, you’ll learn even more about our wonderful school and the extraordinary accomplishments of our talented students and staff.   

Student work and photos will be posted on our website (and in ads/articles about the school) unless you inform us in writing that you do not want your child’s work or picture included.  If applicable, please notify Matt Cronin, Technology Coordinator.     

 

MCCPS NETWORK AND INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

Introduction

The Internet is an electronic tool connecting thousands of computers all over the world to millions of subscribers just like MCCPS.  Using the Internet students will be able to access a variety of sources including: information and news from educational and commercial resources; government agencies and research institutions; information about the arts, culture, politics, and society; The Library of Congress, and university libraries. There is also the potential to access dangerous, harmful, offensive, and malicious content that also populates the Internet.  In order to minimize exposures to the negative elements of the Internet, it is important that we have policies and controls in place.

This Acceptable Use Policy applies to all MCCPS students, and violation of the policy will result in consequences including, but not limited to, loss of student access privileges.  Although student access to the Internet will primarily take place within the classroom and the computer lab, the Acceptable Use Policy covers all use of the MCCPS network while on the MCCPS campus, regardless of actual location or time of day of access.  Upon notification and review of a student infraction, the Interim Academic Director or her designee will make the final decision determining future student access privileges.   Further, even though MCCPS may use technical or manual means to limit student access, these limits do not provide a foolproof means for enforcing the provisions of this policy and it is the student’s responsibility to adhere to the terms of this Acceptable Use Policy. All provisions of this agreement are subordinate to local, state and federal statutes and policies.

Acceptable and Unacceptable Uses of the MCCPS Network

The use of the Internet must be in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of MCCPS.  Any other use may be determined unacceptable and result in termination of the student's access.

Use of the MCCPS Network is a privilege.  The availability of the Internet as a research tool is a tremendous benefit to the faculty and students of MCCPS.  We ask that students and parents understand and accept that the purpose of the MCCPS Network is educational, and that any other use is inappropriate and could result in appropriate disciplinary action taken by the school.  The MCCPS Network will only be used to access and transmit material that is consistent with MCCPS’s educational philosophy and curriculum. 

Acceptable Use

Responsible use of the MCCPS Network requires that users:

• DO accept full liability for their actions
• DO use their own names during network communications
• DO obtain permission from the supervising teacher or staff member before accessing the Internet, obtain permission from the supervising teacher or staff member.
• DO obtain permission from the supervising teacher or staff member prior to printing materials found on the Internet,
• DO give credit to copyrighted materials found on the Internet and incorporated into MCCPS school work
• DO create, use, and maintain a password that was created according to MCCPS guidelines. This password is to be used to access the MCCPS Network and any resources that reside within the network and require password access.
• DO take precautions to maintain the secrecy of their password so that other users will not be able to utilize that password for malicious purposes.  MCCPS users are responsible for all activity under their accounts
• DO change their password immediately if a user suspects that someone has discovered their password.  Additionally, users should notify their teacher if they suspect their password has been discovered or used by another person.

 

Unacceptable Use

It is not acceptable for users to use the MCCPS network for any of the following activities: 

• interfering with the normal and proper operation of the MCCPS Network or the Internet
• adversely affecting the ability of others to use MCCPS Network, equipment, or services, including, but not limited to, placing a computer virus on any computer system, including the MCCPS system
• conducting themselves in ways that are harmful or deliberately offensive to others
• gaining unauthorized access to any computer or telecommunications networks, including the MCCPS network
• giving their passwords to another user, permitting other individual to make use of any of their passwords to access account privileges on the MCCPS Network, or making an effort to learn anyone else’s password
• attempting to hide their identity or impersonate anyone else, including logging in through another person's account or attempting to access another user's password or files
• vandalizing, destroying data, invading the privacy of another's account, or posting anonymous inflammatory messages
• accessing, sending or posting materials or communications that are

• damaging to another's reputation;

• abusive;
• obscene;
• sexually oriented;
• threatening;
• defamatory, libelous, or ‘hate speech’ material concerning a person or group of people
• contrary to MCCPS's policy on harassment;
• harassing; or illegal.

• using any form of instant messaging including, but not limited to, AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Instant Messenger, and ICQ,
• attempting to bypass, circumvent, or disable any MCCPS firewalls, internet filters, or other software and devices the school uses to monitor and manage internet traffic on the MCCPS Network
• engaging in any non-MCCPS commercial or fundraising purpose
• intercepting communications intended for other persons
• furthering any illegal act, including identity theft or infringement on any intellectual property rights
• downloading, uploading, storing or distributing any files, software, or other material that is not specifically related to an MCCPS educational project